FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Parabus?
Parabus is a specialized, curb to curb public transportation service for passengers who are physically unable to use the conventional transit service.
Who can ride the Parabus?
You may be eligible to ride the Parabus if you use a mobility device/aid, have vision loss, receive hemodialysis treatments, or are unable to walk 175
meters.
If you qualify, complete an application form with the help of your doctor, have them sign it, and send it to Transit Services. Your application will be reviewed, and if approved, you will be notified as per your preferred method of communication.
How do I get approval to ride the Parabus?
Applications must be completed by a physician, nurse practitioner, chiropractor, occupational therapist, or physiotherapist. Once received, applications take approximately 5 to 10 days to process. If approved, a letter and brochure will be sent to you.
Where can I get an application?
An online
application form is available. Forms can also be picked up at the Sault Ste. Marie Transit office located at 111 Huron Street (across from the Ontario Travel Information Centre), or call us at 705-942-1404 and we will mail you an application form.
How do I use the Parabus?
Once your application has been approved, you can book the Parabus for service by calling 705-942-1404 weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. You will need to provide your name, pick-up address, date and time you wish to travel, destination address, and the time you wish to be picked up to return home. We also need to know if someone is accompanying you.
How far in advance should I book the Parabus?
You can book the Parabus up to two weeks in advance. For example, if you have an appointment on January 20th, the earliest you can book the Parabus is January 6th.
i.e.
How much does a Parabus ride cost?
The cash fare for a ride is $3.20 each way, per person. Exact cash only.
Passes available:
$89.30 – 40 Rides
$10.25 – 6 Rides (Seniors Only 60+)
$20.45 – 12 Rides (Seniors Only 60+)
Parabus passes can only be purchased at the Transit Office or at the Sault Area Hospital Gift Shop.
Punch passes are available, see
Fares.
What if I require assistance at all times?
If you require an attendant to ride with you, you may request an Attendant Card, which allows your attendant to ride for Free. This must be indicated on your application form. Call the office for more information.
Where do I catch the Parabus?
Parabus service is curb-to-curb. The Parabus will pick you up at the street curb closest to your home. If you require assistance to and from the curb, you must make your own arrangements.
What if I have to cancel my ride?
If you must cancel your ride, call us as soon as you know. Cancellations require a minimum of 1-hour notice, otherwise a No-Show Penalty of a one-way fare plus an administration fee will be charged. Cancellations can also be made after regular office hours at (705) 942-1404.
What are the hours of operation:
Once your application has been approved, you can book the Parabus for service during the following hours:
Monday to Friday: 6:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Saturday: 6:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Sunday: 7:00 a.m. –12:00 a.m.
Statutory Holidays
Parabus operates on the following statutory holidays: Family Day,
Easter, Canada Day, August Civic Holiday, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, Boxing Day.
Parabus is closed on the following: New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Victoria Day, Labour Day.